And with those words, Gregg Hunt’s 14-year association with collegiate summer ball in Torrington came to end last Friday.

Hunt contacted the Carminucci Group, owners of the Torrington Titans of the Future’s Collegiate baseball franchise with the message that he would not be returning for the 2012 season. Hunt has been offered and accepted a position on the team’s advisory board.

Hunt, who also coaches baseball and basketball at Wamogo High School, coached the Torrington Twisters in the New England Collegiate Baseball League (NECBL) for 12 seasons before the team moved to New Bedford, Massachusetts and has spent the past two seasons guiding the Torrington Titans, first in the Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) and last season in the Futures Collegiate Baseball League.

During his tenure, Torrington teams played for five league championships (four in the NECBL) and were consistently near the top of the league, despite not winning a title.

Hunt offered no specific reason for his decision but did express appreciation for his opportunity to coach in Torrington.

“I had a wonderful opportunity to coach in Torrington for 14 years,” said Hunt. “It’s been a fantastic run. I coached great kids and worked with great people.”

Hunt’s decision did not come as a total surprise to Caminucci Group CEO Chris Carminucci.

“When we came in late last year and purchased Torrington we knew Gregg had to make a decision whether he wanted to stay on,” said Carminucci. “And we kind of said we would evaluate everything after a year. I coached in the minor leagues and I think Gregg is a hell of a manager and we wanted him back but I also knew he has been doing this for 14 years.

“I admire somebody who gets up every day and competes like Gregg did and he always put the kids first. I know he will be a big part of everything moving forward. It couldn’t have ended better between us.”

According to Carminucchi the organization has two candidates in mind but is withholding names until conferring with the possible successors to Hunt.

“ Gregg set the bar high,” said Carminucci. “We have to get a man with his resume and passion. We’re not in a rush, but we are anxious to find the right person. We will talk to Gregg about it and hopefully make a decision in the next three weeks.”